The Director's Cut

Before hopping your way through the Coppola hotels, you’ll make a short visit to Antigua, Guatemala’s colonial treasure. You’ll spend two nights at Posada del Angel, a cosy inn hidden down an inconspicuous cobbled street. Spend your days exploring the Spanish colonial town, visiting the local markets and the ancient cathedral ruins. Sheathed by volcanoes, climb up to Cerro de la Cruz for the best viewpoint in town, take a horse and carriage ride through the centre, or get lost on foot through the narrow cobbled alleyways.

A short internal flight will then take you to charming Flores, situated close the Mayan archaeological site of Tikal. The Coppola hotel experience starts here, as you make your way to La Lancha, a secluded lakeside lodge nestled within verdant tropical forest. Perched high above the shore of Lago Petén Itzá, the hotel overlooks the colonial town of Flores across the lake. During your stay here you’ll have the opportunity to explore the ancient Maya region, with the sites of Tikal, Uxactun, Yaxhá and others in close proximity. Why not take a helicopter ride over the ancient monuments that protrude from the Maya Biosphere Reserve for spectacular bird’s eye panoramas?

Crossing the border into Belize, you’ll travel deep into the Cayo District for a three-night stay at the next Coppola hotel: Blancaneaux Lodge. Surrounded by rainforest, the lodge sits in complete isolation from civilisation, interwoven into the heart of the Maya Mountains. Secluded in its tranquil setting, you’ll be serenaded by the sounds of the forest, with trickling streams, crashing waterfalls and abundant forest activity passing you by. Your stay here will have you exploring the forest on wild jungle hikes, scenic biking trips and audacious caving adventures, making quick stops for bathing in the gushing waterfalls and natural pools.

Find paradise on the final leg of your trip, with a stay at Turtle Inn, in Belize’s Stan Creek district. Jutting out into the Caribbean Sea, you’ll be surrounded by pristine white sandy beaches and azure waters. Secluded in its location, the retreat is home to a small collection of private Balinese style huts, all of which are perched on the seafront. Renowned as a diving mecca, spend your days scouring the underwater world to explore Belize’s UNESCO listed Barrier Reef. Above water, try your hand at paddle boarding or fishing, or take a romantic sunset cruise along the coast. If you’re still seeking adventure, head inland to discover hidden lagoons and wild jungle. Here you can canoe down Monkey River or get that final burst of adrenaline by zip wiring across the canopy. After a short flight to Belize City, you’ll fly home via the States.